State of Oregon Archives: on Civil Rights


Andrea Salinas: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

What does this mean for our community?

It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; State Rep. Andrea Salinas co-sponsored and voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 13, 2021

Bud Pierce: Same-sex marriage is a "settled" issue

The positions Pierce has voiced so far are generally fiscally conservative but socially liberal. Pierce said issues like abortion and same-sex marriage are "settled," though he wants as few abortions as are necessary.

Much of Pierce's rhetoric during his announcement focused on what he called "Oregon's broken state government." He said as governor he'd demand reform of state agencies by eliminating and consolidating inefficient programs. He said he would reduce government spending by not replacing state agency workers who retire or leave their job, instead of reducing agency size through layoffs.

Source: Salem Statesman Jo urnal on 2016 Oregon gubernatorial race Sep 10, 2015

Casey Kulla: Committed to equity, some groups need additional resources

I am committed to equity, which means I am committed to making sure marginalized people have the resources they need and a voice in decision-making. Giving everyone the same resources does not make everyone equal, and I recognize some groups need additional resources, or specific resources, to get them on equal footing. Knowing this, I will work toward equity by directing resources to marginalized people based on their circumstances and needs.
Source: 2021 OR Governor campaign website KullaForOregon.com Aug 30, 2021

Casey Kulla: Queer Oregonians should feel safe, affirmed, included

LGBTQIA+/Queer Oregonians already have some strong protections, but there's more work to do. Queer Oregonians feel safer in some parts of the state than others. My goal is to make statewide changes throughout government, education, and healthcare systems that help queer Oregonians inside and outside our urban areas feel safe, affirmed, and included.
Source: 2021 OR Governor campaign website KullaForOregon.com Aug 30, 2021

Cliff Bentz: Disallow transgender change name/sex to be private

Legislative Summary: HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

NBC News analysis: Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

Legislative Outcome: Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; State Rep. Cliff Bentz voted NO; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records Mar 15, 2017

Jason Beebe: Publicly read a June Pride Month proclamation

About 50 people showed up for the meeting, most of whom were in the audience for two reasons. Mayor Jason Beebe was scheduled to read a June Pride Month proclamation, which drew supporters of the LGBTQ community. Others showed up to respond to comments made in a previous meeting by Councilor Steve Uffelman regarding COVID vaccination.
Source: Central Oregonian on 2022 Oregon Senate race Jun 29, 2021

Jeff Merkley: Apply affirmative action to state hiring

Q: On affirmative action: Should race, ethnicity or gender be taken into account in state agencies' decisions on: Public employment?

A: Yes.

Q: State college and university admissions?

A: Yes.

Q: State contracting?

A: Yes. because of sexual orientation;

  • hereby is recognized as and declared to be a civil right.However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another.
    Source: Oregon State 1998 National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 1998

    Jeff Merkley: Oregon Equality Act: sexual orientation is a civil right

    Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon: To protect their health, safety and morals from the consequences of intergroup hostility, tensions and practices of discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation: The Legislative Assembly intends to provide:However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another.
    Source: The Oregon Equality Act (SB 2): state voting records Dec 31, 2007

    Jeff Merkley: Ensure that women earn equal pay for equal work

    On April 9, Senate Democrats failed to break a filibuster preventing passage of a bill aimed at ensuring that women receive equal pay for equal work. Republicans said the legislation could actually have a harmful impact on women in the workplace.

    What Merkley says: "It's wrong that even today, women in Oregon make just 79 cents for every dollar a man makes, and minority women experience an even greater gap in earnings. I co-sponsored and helped pass the Lilly Ledbetter Fair Pay Act to ensure women employees can have their day in court when they are the victims of illegal wage discrimination. I am now fighting to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, the next step we must take to ensure women earn equal pay for equal work."

    Wehby's response: "Senator Merkley's approach to this issue is not only wrong, but will only exacerbate the problem of discrimination against women in our economy. A bill like this will encourage job creators to look for labor substitution. I would have voted no."

    Source: The Oregonian on 2014 Oregon Senate race Jul 18, 2014

    Jim Huffman: Supports the legal rights of gays

    It makes sense why some liberal bloggers are attacking the bow tie [which Huffman wears]. Getting into the issues with Huffman could prove problematic. Huffman is the kind of Republican that a lot of independent Oregonians will be attracted to: He has supported the legal rights of gays and opposes the death penalty, saying it isn't applied with enough reliability or accuracy to deserve support.
    Source: Elizabeth Hovde, columnist in The Oregonian Mar 6, 2010

    Jo Rae Perkins: I do not believe racism is a threat to domestic security

    Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

    A: I do not believe racism is a threat to domestic security. The term racism is technically incorrect as humans are all members of the same race, the human race. One's ethnicity is irrelevant. It is how a person is raised, what they believe in. Were they taught that capitalism is evil or that America is the great Satan? It is the content of one's character, their heart, that should be judged, not the color of their skin. Respect a person's heritage, their ethnicity, their gender. Judge them on the content of their character and actions.

    Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 Oregon Senate race Nov 3, 2020

    Jo Rae Perkins: Black wealth gap due to welfare rules, not redlining

    Perkins has made no secret of her views--some of which are in stark contrast to the purpose of the Albany Human Relations Commission. She's gone on the record claiming the practice of denying Black families mortgages in certain areas of town, known as redlining, is not responsible for the generational wealth gap between Black and white families. Instead, she attributes it to a government effort to remove Black fathers from households as a condition of welfare payments.
    Source: Albany Democrat-Herald on 2022 Oregon Senate race Jan 17, 2021

    John Kitzhaber: Recognize same-sex marriages

    Source: Oregon Gubernatorial 1998 National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 1998

    John Kitzhaber: Maintain affirmative action in colleges & state hiring

    Source: Oregon Gubernatorial 1998 National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 1998

    Kate Brown: Prosecute discrimination cases; support affirmative action

    Source: Oregon Legislative 1996 National Political Awareness Test Nov 1, 1996

    Kate Brown: Family Fairness Act to protect LGBT rights

    In just over a year, Governor Brown has gotten real results for Oregon families. Kate worked successfully to raise the state's minimum wage and guarantee paid sick leave to workers across the state; increase education funding by nine percent in order to prevent teacher layoffs and keep class sizes from increasing; signed into law a voluntary retirement plan which gives every Oregonian access to a professionally invested retirement account; and put Oregon at the forefront of the clean energy movement with legislation that ends Oregon's use of coal power. In 2007, she successfully spearheaded legislation that The Oregonian called the "state's most sweeping package of ethics reforms in 34 years." Brown also worked to pass Family and Medical Leave, a bill requiring insurance companies to cover annual breast exams for women, and both the Oregon Equality Act and Family Fairness Act to protect LGBT rights.
    Source: Vote-USA.org on 2016 Oregon Gubernatorial incumbents Aug 23, 2016

    Kate Brown: Let transgendered privately change name/sex on vital records

    Legislative Summary: HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

    NBC News analysis: Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

    Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records May 18, 2017

    Kate Brown: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

    SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

    Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

    What does this mean for our community?

    It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

    It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

    Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 21, 2021

    Kevin Stine: Affirmative action is ok, bur don't enforce statistically

    Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Legally require hiring more women/minorities"?

    A: Support. This may be difficult to enforce. An organization with high concentration of white males does not necessarily mean discrimination.

    Source: Email interview on 2016 Oregon Senate race with OnTheIssues Jan 1, 2016

    Kevin Stine: Strongly supports same-sex marriage

    Q: Do you support or oppose the statement, "Comfortable with same-sex marriage"?

    A: Strongly support.

    Source: Email interview on 2016 Oregon Senate race with OnTheIssues Jan 1, 2016

    Knute Buehler: Let transgendered privately change name/sex on vital records

    Legislative Summary: HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

    NBC News analysis: Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; State Rep. Knute Buehler voted YES; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

    Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records Mar 15, 2017

    Mark Callahan: Marriage is between one man and one woman

    I believe marriage is a religious institution and is between one man and one woman. This is what the Oregon Constitution defines marriage as also. Civil unions are recognized by the State of Oregon for legal purposes of being able to see relatives in a hospital, for example. Civil Unions are not the same as religiously recognized marriage. Those advocating for "gay marriage" use the term "marriage" to describe what civil unions already accomplish. Personally, I don't need to know, nor do I want to know, what people choose to do in the privacy of their own homes. Furthermore, I fully support the rights of business owners to make decisions that align with their faith in God.
    Source: 2016 Oregon Senate campaign website, CallahanForOregon.com Oct 9, 2015

    Monica Wehby: Government shouldn't be involved in same-sex marriage

    Rep. Jason Conger wasted no time taking a swipe at Portland physician Monica Wehby. In his opening remarks, Conger said Republicans won't win by "running candidates who fit the 'D narrative'" or by "running a rich, disconnected Republican."

    Wehby has said the government shouldn't be involved in same-sex marriage and abortion is a personal choice. Wehby countered Conger by saying she thinks "logically not ideologically," adding that "we need a little bit more of that in D.C."

    Source: Statesman Journal on 2014 Oregon Senate debate Mar 9, 2014

    Monica Wehby: Paycheck Fairness Act hurts women in the workplace

    What Merkley says: "It's wrong that even today, women in Oregon make just 79 cents for every dollar a man makes. I [voted for &] am now fighting to pass the Paycheck Fairness Act, the next step we must take to ensure women earn equal pay for equal work."

    Wehby's response: "Based on actual experience, I know that Senator Merkley's approach to this issue is not only wrong, but will only exacerbate the problem of discrimination against women in our economy. The bill that Senator Merkley supports adds additional regulations, documentation and other administrative requirements that will have a harmful effect on women in the workplace. Senator Merkley's answer to this issue is typical of career politicians--more regulation, more red tape, and more government interference on small businesses. A bill like this will encourage job creators to look for labor substitution. I would have voted no based on my workplace experiences and knowledge of how this legislation would have hurt women in the workplace

    Source: The Oregonian on 2014 Oregon Senate race Jul 18, 2014

    Paul Romero: American, Veteran, father, Oregonian and Christian

    Source: 2020 Oregon Senate campaign website Romero4Oregon.com Dec 23, 2019

    Paul Romero: Against "extra equality for groups"

    Source: 2020 Oregon Senate campaign website Romero4Oregon.com Dec 23, 2019

    Paul Romero: I have not witnessed racism as a problem

    Q: Is racism a threat to domestic security in the United States? Why or why not?

    A: No. Sure there are small elements on all sides that revel in their racism, but I have not witnessed this as a problem contributed by or experienced by all Americans. I see a variety of area cultures, perspectives (justified or not), and, ultimately, a blame game. Too many people cast blame on anyone but themselves for their lot in life. In America the American Dream is available to all who have the motivation and inspiration. Sadly, many lack the motivation or inspiration, but they all can blame others for their own failures. No more pity parties. Get guidance, a mentor, mentors, and build YOUR OWN dream, then follow through.

    Source: AFA iVoterGuide on 2020 Oregon Senate race Nov 3, 2020

    Tate Reeves: Committed to building a more equitable world

    The first step to creating opportunity is recognizing that racism is endemic to our systems, impacting every part of our culture and our economy. I am committed to ensuring that the world we build as we emerge from this last year is a more equitable one. We must build back better.
    Source: 2021 State of the State Address to the Oregon legislature Jan 21, 2021

    Tina Kotek: Came out in early 20s; been with wife for 17 years

    I also came out as a lesbian in my early twenties and it was liberating. While it wasn't always easy, each experience coming out to others strengthened my resilience. For me, coming out became a personal responsibility to undermine hatred and bigotry. While getting my graduate degree, I fought for and won domestic partnership rights for faculty and students at the University of Washington. Tina and her wife Aimee have been together for 17 years. They live in North Portland with their two dogs. My experience working at nonprofits on behalf of Oregon's most vulnerable led me to serve in the Oregon Legislature. In my first term, I rewrote the state's poverty program for low-income families. In 2013, I was honored to be elected Speaker of the House. From expanding economic security for more families, combating climate change, and working hard to get us through an unprecedented pandemic, my time in the legislature has been dedicated to fighting for Oregonians.
    Source: 2022 Oregon Gubernatorial campaign website TinaForOregon.com Dec 15, 2021

    Tina Kotek: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

    SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

    Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

    What does this mean for our community?

    It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

    It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; State Rep. Tina Kotek co-sponsored and voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

    Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 13, 2021

    Tina Kotek: Oregon Equality Act: sexual orientation is a civil right

    Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon: To protect their health, safety and morals from the consequences of intergroup hostility, tensions and practices of discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation: The Legislative Assembly intends to provide:However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another. Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 21-7 on March 21; passed House 35-25 on April 17; State Rep. Tina Kotek voted YES; signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski on May 9, 2007.
    Source: The Oregon Equality Act (SB 2): state voting records Apr 17, 2007

    Christine Drazan: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

    SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

    Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

    What does this mean for our community?

    It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

    It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; Minority Leader Christine Drazan voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

    Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 13, 2021

    Betsy Johnson: Fight bigotry and protect marriage equality in Oregon

    The gay community continues to face discrimination and threats of violence. I will fight bigotry and discrimination in all forms and protect marriage equality in Oregon. As Oregon's independent governor, I will speak out against and act against racism, prejudice, and discrimination in all its forms. I will promote equal opportunity for all Oregonians.
    Source: 2022 Oregon Gubernatorial campaign website RunBetsyRun.com Oct 6, 2022

    Betsy Johnson: Let transgendered privately change name/sex on vital records

    Legislative Summary:HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

    NBC News analysis: Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

    Legislative Outcome:Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; State Sen. Johnson voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

    Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records Mar 15, 2017

    Betsy Johnson: Oregon Equality Act: sexual orientation is a civil right

    Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon: To protect their health, safety and morals from the consequences of intergroup hostility, tensions and practices of discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation: The Legislative Assembly intends to provide:However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another. 

    Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 21-7 on March 21; State Sen. Betsy Johnson voted YES; passed House 35-25 on April 17; signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski on May 9, 2007.

    Source: The Oregon Equality Act (SB 2): state voting records Apr 17, 2007

    Tina Kotek: Let transgendered privately change name/sex on vital records

    Legislative Summary:HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

    NBC News analysis:Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

    Legislative Outcome:Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; House Speaker Tina Kotek voted YES; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

    Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records Mar 15, 2017

    Ted Kulongoski: Oregon Equality Act: sexual orientation is a civil right

    Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon: To protect their health, safety and morals from the consequences of intergroup hostility, tensions and practices of discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation: The Legislative Assembly intends to provide:However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another. Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 21-7 on March 21; passed House 35-25 on April 17; signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski on May 9, 2007.
    Source: The Oregon Equality Act (SB 2): state voting records May 9, 2007

    Tobias Read: Oregon Equality Act: sexual orientation is a civil right

    Be It Enacted by the People of the State of Oregon: To protect their health, safety and morals from the consequences of intergroup hostility, tensions and practices of discrimination of any kind based on sexual orientation: The Legislative Assembly intends to provide:However, this section shall not be construed to prevent a bona fide church from preferring an employee of one religious sect or persuasion over another. Legislative Outcome:Passed Senate 21-7 on March 21; passed House 35-25 on April 17; State Rep. Tobias Read voted YES; signed by Governor Ted Kulongoski on May 9, 2007.
    Source: The Oregon Equality Act (SB 2): state voting records Apr 17, 2007

    Janelle Bynum: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

    SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

    Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

    What does this mean for our community?

    It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

    It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; State Rep. Janelle Bynum voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

    Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 13, 2021

    Janelle Bynum: Let transgendered privately change name/sex on vital records

    Legislative Summary: HB2673: Creates alternative process for persons seeking to change name on vital record for purpose of affirming gender identity. Eliminates requirement for courts to publicly post court orders changing name or gender identity.

    NBC News analysis: Gov. Kate Brown has signed a bill that will make it easier for transgender people in Oregon to shield any updates they make to their birth certificates, a process typically conducted through the court system without privacy from public view. The measure makes Oregon the second state after California to adopt laws specifically designed to help mitigate potential discrimination against transgender individuals from employers, landlords or anyone else who is otherwise able to dig up birth-record changes through public record.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed House 37-23-0 on Mar/15/17; State Rep. Janelle Bynum voted YES; Passed Senate 23-6-1 on May/10/17; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/18/17

    Source: NBC News analysis of Oregon HB2673 voting records Mar 15, 2017

    Maxine Dexter: Ban the LGBTQ Panic Defense for second degree murder

    SB704: Provides that discovery of victim's actual or perceived gender, gender identity, gender expression or sexual orientation does not constitute reasonable explanation for extreme emotional disturbance for purposes of affirmative defense to murder in the second degree.

    Basic Rights Oregon Summary: On May 13, the Oregon House passed Senate Bill 704, which will ban the use of the LGBTQ panic defense in Oregon! Then, on May 21, Governor Kate Brown signed it into law.

    What does this mean for our community?

    It means sending the message that violence against LGBTQ people is never acceptable.

    It means showing up for Black, Indigenous, and Latinx transgender women who experience disproportionately high rates of violence.

    Legislative Outcome: Passed Senate 29-1-0 on Apr/14/21; Passed House 54-0-6 on May/13/21; State Rep. Maxine Dexter sponsored and voted YES; Signed by Governor Kate Brown on May/21/21.

    Source: BasicRights.org on Oregon Legislature voting records SB704 May 13, 2021

    Tina Kotek: Won't tolerate cut to education funding over DEI policies

    Officials are refusing to sign off on a demand from the Department of Education to abandon policies related to diversity, equity and inclusion. "The Trump Administration's threat to shortchange Oregon students hurts children and families and undermines the dedication and work of our educators," Kotek wrote. "We will not tolerate this unwarranted and unlawful attempt to take away resources promised to Oregon students and paid for by the tax dollars we send to the federal government."
    Source: Oregon Public (OPB/PBS News) on 2026 Oregon Governor race Apr 10, 2025

    • The above quotations are from State of Oregon Politicians: Archives.
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    2024 Presidential contenders on Civil Rights:
      Candidates for President & Vice-President:
    V.P.Kamala Harris (D-CA)
    Robert F. Kennedy Jr.(I-CA)
    Chase Oliver(L-GA)
    Dr.Jill Stein(D-MA)
    Former Pres.Donald Trump(R-FL)
    Sen.J.D.Vance(R-OH)
    Gov.Tim Walz(D-MN)
    Dr.Cornel West(I-NJ)

    2024 presidential primary contenders:
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    N.D.Gov.Doug Burgum(R)
    N.J.Gov.Chris_Christie(R)
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    S.C.Gov.Nikki_Haley(R)
    Ark.Gov.Asa_Hutchinson(R)
    Former V.P.Mike Pence(R-IN)
    U.S.Rep.Dean_Phillips(D-MN)
    Vivek_Ramaswamy(R-OH)
    S.C.Sen.Tim_Scott(R)
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